by Kelsey Shea

An Observatory Hill nonprofit kicked off a new program last week that will provide support for Pittsburghers who have suffered from strokes.

Allen Place Community Services Inc. launched its Northside Stroke Support Program on February 14, and the program will run every Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Allen Place, which is in the old Chatham school building at 227 Bonvue St.

“It is our hope the stroke support program will raise awareness of the disease process, decrease the stress associated with life after stroke, and improve the health, education and family relationships of those living with a stroke history,” said Jerry Allen, executive director of Allen Place.

The program was funded by a $5,000 grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, and will include health education and training, social activities, physical activities, guest speakers and nutritional experts as well as information about preventative stroke care and what to do in an emergency.

Allen Place Community Services collaborates with the Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) Comprehensive Stroke Center, The National Stroke Association, the local American Heart Association and American Stroke Association and Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority, Inc. Kappa Chapter toward enhancing community based stroke survivor and caregiver support.